Daiki Hashioka becomes the first Japan international to sign for Luton Town after putting pen to paper and passing his medical on Tuesday afternoon.
Subject to a work visa and international clearance, the 24-year-old joins for an undisclosed fee from Belgian top-flight club Sint-Truiden, where he had been impressing since arriving in Europe from Japan in December 2021.
He will wear squad number 27 - and will be unveiled to the Kenilworth Road crowd before Tuesday's Premier League fixture with Brighton and Hove Albion.
Welcome, @hashiokadaiki! 🇯🇵 pic.twitter.com/sK4qIuOtQm
— Luton Town FC (@LutonTown) January 30, 2024
On his newest recruit manager Rob Edwards said: “‘Hashi’ is a versatile defender who can play anywhere along the backline and, having met him I know he’s going to fit into the group really, really well.
“He’s got a great attitude and has a real desire to come and play for Luton Town. He understands we’ve got a good squad, and knows he’s got to fight for his opportunity. And he will – he’s really looking forward to the challenge of being here.
“He’s someone who is comfortable in possession, aggressive, and wants to defend. I’m delighted he’s with us.”
The Hatters’ new man said: “It’s always been a dream of mine to play in the Premier League. It’s physically and technically a top league and very intense, so I know it’s going to be difficult but I’ll give my all for the team.
“My strengths are heading, one-versus-one situations and I like to do a lot of running. I’ve only scored twice this season, but I want to score more. I can’t wait to celebrate in front of the Luton supporters.
“I’m so happy to be joining and I can’t wait to play as soon as possible.”
Born in Urawa, a northern suburb of Tokyo, Hashioka started his career at hometown club, Urawa Reds, where he would go on and play 74 times in the Japanese top-flight.
He made his international debut for his country in a 2-1 win over China in October 2019 – one of seven caps to his name.
This season Hashioka scored twice and set-up two more in 18 appearances for Sint-Truiden.
Please give a warm Luton Town welcome to our first Japanese international.
Good luck, Hashi!
